Six pet rabbits were found dumped in a pensioner’s trolley next to some rubbish bins in north London.
The bunnies, some of which had health issues, were discovered outside Kentish Town City Farm on June 16.
Two were taken to RSPCA Finsbury Park animal hospital for treatment as they were suffering from rotting teeth.
The remaining rabbits were transferred to RSPCA Leybourne Animal Centre in Kent, where the animal welfare charity said there was more room to accommodate them.
The RSPCA says the growing number of rabbits being given up or abandoned by their owners means the charity is having to fund temporary private accommodation until spaces are free at its animal centres.
Last year, there was a 48% increase in the intake of rabbits to the charity’s branches and animal centres compared to 2021, with more than 3,000 unwanted rabbits arriving.
Up until May this year, RSPCA animal centres had taken in 307 rabbits after 378 arrived at its branches.
Other bunnies currently housed at RSPCA animal centres are also looking for homes.
One of those is Rusty, who has been looking for a new owner after he was found living in unsuitable conditions.
A spokesperson for RSPCA Wimbledon, Wandsworth and Sutton branch said: “Rusty has proved to be a cheeky chappy and is growing in confidence every day.
“He's brave enough now to sit and be stroked and he'd love another bunny or two to play with as he has oodles of energy.”
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